A blockbuster trade proposal has the Los Angeles Clippers landing another star to complement Kawhi Leonard. But it’s not James Harden.
Harden requested a trade from the Philadelphia 76ers several weeks ago, even opting into his $35.6 million player option for 2022-23 to help facilitate a dal. It was also reported earlier this month that Harden’s desire is to play for the Clippers.
But at NBA Analysis Network, James Piercey proposed the idea of the Clippers trading for another All-Star from another Eastern Conference team. Piercey’s proposal? The Cleveland Cavaliers sending Donovan Mitchell and Isaac Okoro to Los Angeles in exchange for fellow All-Star Paul George and a 2028 first-round pick:
“George is somewhat injury-prone, and Leonard is regularly hurt. Mitchell is comparatively durable. Moreover, pairing Leonard with a dynamic scoring guard may be more sensible than pairing him with another shot-creating 3-and-D wing.
Either way, this deal also works for the Clippers’ long-term outlook. Sure, they’re giving up a first-round pick, but they’re landing a much younger superstar and another intriguing young wing in the process. Should the Cavaliers give so much up for George?”
The Cavaliers acquired Mitchell in a blockbuster deal with the Utah Jazz last offseason. Mitchell had an excellent year and helped the Cavs to the No. 4 seed in the Eastern Conference, but they were upset by the New York Knicks in the opening round of the postseason.
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The Clippers just wrapped up their fourth year of the George-Leonard era, which has been marred by injuries and a lack of postseason success. With the two future Hall of Famers, LA has only won three playoff series.
Given the disappointing playoff performances by both clubs, Piercey’s trade proposal makes good sense. LA would have a younger and healthier star to complement Leonard, while the Cavs would have a more experienced and sound defensive player in George to complement their young core.
